Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
The Durban International Marathon attracts about 3,500 finishers each May in South Africa's warm Indian Ocean port city. The course follows the Golden Mile beachfront and passes Moses Mabhida Stadium and the Durban harbour. May subtropical weather and flat coastal terrain make it one of South Africa's most accessible city marathons.
Durban International Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
The next Durban International Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 2 May 2027 with a 5:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.
The Durban International Marathon is a loop starting and finishing near Moses Mabhida Stadium on the Golden Mile, following the beachfront promenade past the harbour before climbing the Berea ridge with Indian Ocean views. That Berea climb is the key challenge on an otherwise flat coastal route, and spectators pack the beachfront and stadium area.
The Durban International Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
For the Durban International Marathon, the race is held on the first Sunday of May. Registration is at https://www.durbanmarathon.co.za/.
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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